NEWS

Driving down the bumpy dirt road through an unforgivingly impoverished compound of Zambia’s capital city, Lusaka, will put a scare into any traveler. It really frightened me to know that areas like this were places that these kids came from. Knowing that the kids came from such poverty and are now at a village with plenty of food, water and clothing, one might say the kids are saved. These necessities for surviving do not compare to the greatest gift they have received since coming to the Rafiki village, an eternal life with God.

These kids have had almost no oversight during games and sports previous to our arrival. The limited staff here is always busy serving the kids around the village in other ways and not able to lead the kids during playtime. It can be frustrating for us when the kids are not following instructions, being a poor sport, or playing too aggressively. We’ve often asked God to keep our hearts patient. God has given us many opportunities to provide correction in their attitudes and actions. Simple solutions like shaking hands before and after games goes a long way in teaching them to respect others.

This week the MOAM team along with the six oldest boys have been working on building a circle driveway in the village. While working, we talk to the boys about what it means to work hard, provide for a family, and be a leader in the community. Although the boys may complain about working hard while the other kids play, I was happy to learn this has been one of their favorite experiences. When I told them that we might be selecting a different six boys to help us the next day, they begged me to let them continue to work. I know God has used us in a powerful way to show the kids, especially the older boys, what it means to be a Christian adult living for God. I pray that the experiences we’ve had and the lessons we’ve taught them will stick with the kids forever. In a similar way the kids look up to us, Shane and I look up to Jason. Through our nightly bible studies where we dive deep into each other’s lives, God has used Jason to work with us in a special way. I pray that the time we’ve had together will continue to shape us long after our trip concludes.

“The righteous will live by faith.” –Romans 1:17

-Ben Wright, University of Michigan

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